Hi!
I just had a traditional DS with Dr. Esquerra four weeks ago today, and I'd do it again tomorrow. Everything about my experience with Mexicali Bariatric Clinic was good. Every member of staff from both MBC and the Almater Hospital were kind, professional, and responsive. The doctors were on site almost constantly, the nurses WERE there constantly, and the cleanliness was above and beyond what I've seen here in the U.S.
The hospital has a special private section for WLS patients, and when I was there there were never more than four of us at a time, all with private rooms, and with our own nursing station that we didn't have to share with any other patients. I've never had nurses so quick to respond to my every need, and all without making me feel I was ever a bother.
I chose to have my surgery there, even though I have insurance here and I can afford to self-pay here in the U.S. For me, it wasn't about the money (although the price was a welcome one!), I specifically chose to go to Dr. Esquerra based on hours and hours of research. I wanted a surgeon who had done lots of DS surgeries, not just a few a year.
As for follow-up care, you really don't ever again need to see a surgeon, unless you have surgical complications. I spoke with my PCP before going and let her know what I would be having and when. At that time I set up a follow-up appt for two weeks post-op and four weeks post-op. The two week one was just to go over with her the medical records that I brought back from Mexico with me, and the four week one is the one recommended by MBC for all your post-op lab draws and an upper GI x-ray to check that healing is going well. My four week appt is tomorrow, but I can tell you that if how I feel is any indicator, all will come out swimmingly.
If you have any more questions, I'm always happy to help, as are many others on this board. Use these resources, they are invaluable!
One last piece of advice - don't wait! Do the surgery as soon as you can. I was scheduled for June, but took advantage of a March cancellation, and I'm so glad I did!